'Iao Valley State Park
'Iao Valley State Park is a peaceful, lush area centering around Kukaemoku, or 'Iao Needle, a towering rock pinnacle. Kukaemoku soars 1,200-feet high and can best be seen in the early morning. There are plenty of great hikes to admire the area's rich foliage, natural pools and scenic mountain views.
There's also a spacious picnic area surrounded by tropical gardens at Kepaniwai Park near Heritage Gardens. The are was the site of a famous battle where King Kemehameha I defeated Maui's army to unite the Hawaiian Islands. Once here, it's difficult to imagine the violent history of such a peaceful place.
Kahului
Here you'll find Maui's larger shops, malls, restaurants and the commercial harbor where cruise ships and ocean barges dock. Kahului is also home to the Maui Arts & Cultural Center (see who's on the performance calendar).
Check out Queen Ka'ahumanu Center, Maui's largest mall. Or return to Kahului Airport for a helicopter sightseeing tour. From Kahului, you can venture Upcountry, begin a road trip to Hana or head to the resort areas of West or South Maui. Kahului is the gateway to your Maui adventures.
Alexander & Baldwin Sugar Museum
Dedicated to preserving and presenting the history and heritage of Maui's sugar industry, this museum charts the establishment and growth of the industry and features intriguing displays on the inner workings of a sugar mill.
Wailuku
Historic Wailuku is the county seat and, along with Kahului, it is one of the commercial centers of Maui. You'll find a good selection of local and ethnic eateries, boutiques, antiques and collectibles in uniquely charming shops. Ka'ahumanu Congregational, named after Queen Ka'ahumanu, is Maui's oldest church. Visit the Bailey House Museum, converted from an early missionary home, and view Hawaiian artifacts, furnishing, clothing and artwork from the 19th century.
Maui Tropical Plantation
A narrated tram tour of this 60-acre working plantations offers a unique opportunity to learn about the origins and harvest techniques of Hawaii's commercial fruit crops. Your guide will demonstrate the art of husking a coconut and you'll learn interesting facts about sugarcane, star fruits, bananas, coffee, macadamia nuts, papaya and more. The gift store is a perfect place to find souvenirs, Made-in-Maui items and fresh fruit grown at the plantation. Enjoy their Craft and Farmer's Market on select days.
